Mental Health of Pregnant Women during Covid-19: A Systematic Review Study

Abstract

Background: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created avenues for physical and mental stress on individuals worldwide.  Pregnant women especially, with the onset of COVID-19 have been challenged greatly by an array of disorders, all with varying cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses.  The aim of our research is to conduct a review of the different mental health issues experienced by pregnant women in various geographical locations and analyze the prevalence of specific mental issues. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted.  Databases PubMed, Google Scholar, BioMed Central, CrossRef and British Medical Journal were thoroughly examined by the authors for the purpose of locating the relevant articles as per specific geographical location.  Results: From the applicable studies identified, twenty-eight (28) were selected for review.  As per the North American studies, levels of depression and anxiety in pregnant women at and around the time of the pandemic ranged from 33.2 to 70%.  This differs in European countries where there were levels of 14.0 to 60%. Prevalence of stress among pregnant women in Asia was 32.7% while 17% of North American women reported the same. In the studies of Australia and South America, the prevalence of anxiety ranged 6% to 13.9% while studies in Africa reported severe and extremely stress, 7.2% (n=33) and 64% (n=29) respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of depression and anxiety among pregnant women was shown to be relatively high in all regions as per the COVID-19 pandemic, owing to many factors.  Based on the studies analyzed, adequate support, resources and better healthcare systems are imperative for ensuring that depression and anxiety levels be reduced among this demographic.